In this post, we\u2019ll delve deeper into the topic and examine:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The 10 principles of servant leadership,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The characteristics servant leaders exhibit,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The benefits and drawbacks of this leadership style,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How servant leadership compares to other approaches, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tips on becoming an effective servant leader.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Without further ado, let\u2019s jump right in.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Servant](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Servant-leadership-cover.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nWhat is servant leadership?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Servant leadership is a somewhat contradictory concept. After all, leaders are powerful people who exert influence over others. However, the servant leadership theory manages to blend the notions of serving and leading<\/strong>. Thus, it challenges the mainstream outlook on leadership roles and offers a fresh perspective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The origins of the servant leadership theory date back to the 1970s. Robert K. Greenleaf, the founder of the Greenleaf Centre for Servant Leadership, published his highly influential essay, The Servant as a Leader<\/em>, in 1970. The text provided the first modern servant leadership definition, with Greenleaf writing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cThe servant-leader is <\/em>servant first.<\/em><\/strong> [… ] It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Greenleaf then goes on to explain why servant leaders stand out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cThe difference manifests itself in the care taken by the servant-first to <\/em>make sure that other people\u2019s highest priority needs are being served<\/em><\/strong>. The best test, and difficult to administer, is: <\/em>Do those served grow as persons?<\/em><\/strong> <\/em>Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants?<\/em><\/strong> And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society; will they benefit, or, at least, not be further deprived?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Over the years, researchers and scholars have proposed different versions of the servant leadership model. But, the general consensus remains close to Greenleaf\u2019s ideas, agreeing that a servant leader:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Shows a high level of <\/strong>emotional intelligence<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cares more for people rather than results,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Communicates in an empathetic manner<\/strong><\/a>, and <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Leads by example. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
While a good starting point, Greenleaf\u2019s servant leadership definition doesn\u2019t touch on the principles behind the approach. For this reason, we\u2019ll now dedicate the following lines to the 10 servant leadership principles to provide a comprehensive overview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nThe 10 principles of servant leadership<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Building on Greeleaf\u2019s work, Larry Spears, a modern authority on this leadership model, articulated the 10 principles guiding servant leaders toward success. These servant leadership principles are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Listening,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Empathy,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Healing,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Awareness,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Persuasion,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Conceptualization,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Foresight,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Commitment to the growth of people, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stewardship, <\/strong>and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Building community. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s learn about each one in more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/The-10-principles-of-servant-leadership.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nPrinciple #1: Listening<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Servant leaders are effective communicators<\/a> not only because they have a way with words but also because they listen first<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sending and receiving messages in verbal communication<\/a> is an interactive process, and servant leaders always begin by hearing out the other side. Thus, they validate the feelings of their interlocutors by taking the time to adopt a different viewpoint. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Listening is a skill, and you can master the discipline even if you\u2019re yet to assume a leadership role. To learn more about active listening and how it aids in conflict resolution and nurturing mutual understanding, check out this guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Active listening: Benefits, skills, and tips<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Principle #2: Empathy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Similar to how a servant leader engages in deep listening<\/a> to better understand their interlocutor, they have no qualms about taking a metaphorical walk in someone else\u2019s shoes. Because they know that no situation is simply black or white, they strive to learn about it from all angles before reaching a decision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a business setting, this benefits employees as their superior will try to find impartial solutions that will strengthen their team the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #3: Healing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
According to Greenleaf, healing refers to a leader\u2019s desire to help followers overcome personal and professional hurdles. Hence, he views it as a holistic practice leaders can facilitate through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Mentoring, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Coaching<\/strong>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Discussions. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Through the above activities, all participants take part in what Greenleaf terms \u201cthe search for wholeness<\/em>.\u201d This pursuit allows them to open doors to opportunities for personal development and professional growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #4: Awareness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Self-awareness is crucial in becoming a better servant-leader. This quality allows you to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Navigate ethical dilemmas, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wade through power dynamics, and <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Consider different values. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, it helps you see circumstances from an interconnected perspective, without leaving anyone behind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a professional environment, it\u2019s an invaluable problem-solving tool, assisting leaders to approach an issue first inwardly, examining internal factors before moving on to external ones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #5: Persuasion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another core principle servant leaders rely on is persuasion. In the business landscape, leaders hold executive and managerial positions, and some choose to lead solely by leveraging their positional status and power. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Servant leaders actively engage in persuasive communication<\/a> rather than coercing someone to reluctantly agree with them. Consequently, they\u2019re simultaneously reasonable and empathetic in their conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Persuasion is only one part of effective leadership communication. To read up on the subject, see this exhaustive blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Leadership communication: Skills, styles, & tips for improvement<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Practice your persuasion and leadership communication skills in Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #6: Conceptualization<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Spears, who espoused Greenleaf\u2019s ideas and contributed to the contemporary iteration of the servant leadership model, believes that servant leaders ought to find that sweet spot \u201cbetween conceptual thinking and a day-to-day operational approach<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interpreted like this, conceptualization is a leader\u2019s commitment to preventing day-to-day activities \u2014 which may become overwhelming in a professional environment \u2014 from eating away at their energy and the organization\u2019s vision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if the tech industry is going through massive layoffs worldwide, it would be unsurprising for a CEO of an up-and-coming startup to panic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, a person following the servant leadership model would reassess the business\u2019s bigger picture. After careful consideration, they would inform their employees how to move forward and schedule a meeting to ensure everyone is in the loop.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Jodie](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Jodie-models-servant-leadership-and-informs-her-staff-of-an-all-hands-meeting-via-Pumble-a-business-communication-app-.png\")
Jodie models servant leadership and informs her staff of an all-hands meeting via Pumble, a business communication app by CAKE.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Principle #7: Foresight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The principle of foresight refers to how servant leaders consider both the past and present situation to make sound decisions for the future. Without foresight, Greenleaf believed, leaders would lose the capacity to confidently guide others to future successes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #8: Commitment to the growth of people<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
One of the most powerful things about servant leaders is that, despite someone\u2019s current skill level, they firmly believe that everyone can grow and change for the better. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consequently, the leadership is collaborative<\/a>, guided chiefly by a team-centric mindset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #9: Stewardship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Historically, stewards had the task of preparing future monarchs for taking the throne, instilling in them the principles of what makes a good sovereign. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stewardship, in Greenleaf\u2019s interpretation, takes inspiration from this medieval notion. Therefore, a servant leader is responsible for acting in the best interest of the people around them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For instance, a business owner who has been offered a significant lump sum to sell their company will surely be tempted to say goodbye to his venture. Yet, because they care for the employees, the business owner will reject the offer after realizing the interested party doesn\u2019t care much for the workforce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Principle #10: Building community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
All humans have specific social needs, which are present even when we join the workforce. When these needs for communal bonds are not met, we may experience poor mental health<\/a>, symptoms of burnout, and isolation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, servant leaders go the extra mile to create a positive environment<\/a> that validates the sense of belonging of others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Empower team communication & build a positive workplace environment<\/span>\nDiscuss, share & collaborate with Pumble, a team communication app by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n
\n Explore<\/a>\n\n Sign up<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nWhat are servant leadership characteristics?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Over the years, researchers have proposed several attributes that define servant leadership. In the below lines, we\u2019ve outlined the 7 most common characteristics of servant leaders<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/The-7-most-common-characteristics-of-servant-leaders-min.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nCharacteristic #1: Involving and consulting others<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The attitude of servanthood isn\u2019t about standing out from the crowd and being a one-person show. Rather, it is about teamwork and collaboration<\/a> and making sure everyone is involved in the decision-making process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #2: Accountability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Accountability is arguably the gold standard of effective leaders. This characteristic entails following through on commitments and showing others they can rely on you to deliver on your promises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Accountable leaders readily take responsibility for their actions and consistently deliver results, whether in-person or in a remote work environment<\/a>. More importantly, they inspire accountability in others, regardless of their role or status. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
For remote workers, staying accountable and on track can sometimes be a struggle. To find more information on how to establish accountability as a remote worker, see this blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- How to achieve work-from-home accountability<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #3: Putting others first<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For those who follow the serve-first mindset, the bottom line doesn\u2019t trump putting people first. Some servant leaders come up with creative ways to express appreciation, but for others, it could be as simple as saying a few kind words. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter how small, kind gestures contribute significantly to solidifying a strong, loyal, and tight-knit community. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #4: Fostering growth and success<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Traditional top-down leadership styles have often placed too much emphasis on end goals. These approaches may work in the short term, but people suffer in the long run, usually losing their drive and energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Servant leaders, on the other hand, prevent this situation by giving their followers a sense of purpose and valuing their expertise. Thus, they foster sustainable growth and success in an environment where everyone has the support necessary to thrive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #5: Ethical behavior<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Servant leaders are also known for their ethical conduct. Decision-making and ethical considerations go hand in hand in nearly all iterations of the servant leadership theory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Namely, servant leaders use personal values, such as integrity and honesty, as guideposts that help them do the right thing and fulfill obligations. As a result, their conduct establishes a benchmark for other people, compelling them to act in a similar manner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ethical behavior also encompasses ethical communication. To read up on this topic, see this blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Ethical communication 101: All about ethics in business communication<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #6: Empowerment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As a psychological construct, empowerment covers several aspects:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Allowing employees to work on goals that align with their personal values,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Giving people a higher sense of capability and competency,<\/strong> and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Providing people with the ability to make autonomous decisions regarding their tasks.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Servant leaders are aware of the above points and strive to create an environment that fosters empowerment. So, the behavior associated with servant leadership is beneficial not only for the leader but for those around them too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Empower your team communication & connection in Pumble <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Characteristic #7: Generating value<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
In one sense, servant leaders are like guides who turn work into a meaningful journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thanks to their empowerment and guidance, employees are fulfilled, and this happy attitude becomes part and parcel of how they interact with customers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As employee and customer satisfaction increase, turnover rates decrease, generating value for the entire business. Hence, the servant leadership model can be useful for companies looking to increase profits while operating on a more human-centered model. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples of servant leadership<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Knowing the principles of this leadership style is helpful, but who are the people who embody them<\/strong>? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To get a clearer picture, we\u2019ll look at a few famous servant leadership examples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #1: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\u201cEverybody can be great, because everybody can serve.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Renowned activist and human rights leader, King is one of the most recognizable representatives of servant leadership. He advocated for equality by emphasizing moral standards and bringing attention to the well-being of underrepresented communities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #2: Howard Shultz, former CEO of Starbucks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cWhen you’re surrounded by people who share a passionate commitment around a common purpose, anything is possible.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Serving as the CEO of Starbucks, Shultz aimed to empower employees to launch the company to new heights. Advocating for a more relationship-driven approach, Shultz was behind several initiatives, including open forums where employees could ask questions<\/a> and suggest new resources to improve performance. Such practices allowed the company to reach its business goals and cultivate an atmosphere of transparent communication<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #3: Herb Kelleher, the co-founder of Southwest Airlines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
- Giving people a higher sense of capability and competency,<\/strong> and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Allowing employees to work on goals that align with their personal values,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ethical communication 101: All about ethics in business communication<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
- How to achieve work-from-home accountability<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
- Leadership communication: Skills, styles, & tips for improvement<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
- Coaching<\/strong>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mentoring, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Empathy,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cares more for people rather than results,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Shows a high level of <\/strong>emotional intelligence<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/default@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png)
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